Oct 14,19,21 - Political Parties 1. Direct Representation:...

Political Parties 1. Direct Representation: the view that elected officials pursue policies that reflect the views of the citizens that elected them. 2. Accountability: the view that as policy is implemented that those responsible for creating the policy can be identified, and subsequently rewarded or punished depending on whether the policy succeeds or fails. a. Hold party responsible 3. Party: A party is any political group identified by an official label that presents at election and is capable of placing through election (free or nonfree) candidates for public office. 4. Principle functions of political parties a. To structure political conflict b. To help carry out the resolution of that conflict in a manner consistent with the electoral mandate Elections and Voting 1. How do people decide on candidates? a. Long Term forces a.i. Party identification a.i.1. Not always like parent’s preferences a.ii. Ideology a.ii.1. Educational Background b. Medium Term Forces b.i. Policy Issues c. Short Term Forces

This preview
has intentionally blurred sections.
Sign up to view the full version.